The Perfect Colour with Resene
Resene Colour Consultant Rebecca Long offers some help when it comes to finding that perfect shade for our walls – helping us all avoid costly mistakes!
We have all been there – you went to the paint store, brought home some colour chips and chose the perfect shade, but somehow, when the colour went up it seemed completely different! So why is it so tricky?
Colours are affected by three main things: context, proportion and light. Perception also plays a key part, as we all see colours differently and they can prompt certain memories for some people.
The best place to start is by collecting pictures and things you are drawn to, perhaps a special fabric or some accessories. As you try colours next to these, a mood or theme will evolve that is unique to you. Remember, colours create emotion and if put together correctly, you will have a home that makes you feel good. You want to ensure you are creating a nurturing environment that you love, which is ultimately good for productivity and wellbeing.
Context
Colours can look very different depending on what they sit next to. That’s why it’s hard to look at a colour in isolation. You need to consider what is going with it, such as your flooring and trims.
Generally, it is more harmonious to link colours with similar undertones. For example, Resene Thorndon Cream has a green undertone and will sit nicely with colours like Resene Green Smoke or Resene Bush. White shades often appear neutral until you sit them beside something else which can then reveal a tone that may or may not work within the scheme.
Proportions
An all-white scheme can look lifeless unless it is broken up with an accent or an area with more colour to create a different mood or focal point. Colours that would normally be considered too dark or strong can look amazing in smaller amounts. Artwork will often look more dramatic with a deep or moody Resene colour behind it. And don’t forget texture – this can be a valuable element in an all-white scheme.
Light
This makes possibly the biggest difference to how we see colour. Usually, colours look much lighter outside. In the daytime, very white shades can take on a reflection of your flooring, for example, or be affected by greenery from outside.
The difference from day to night-time can be dramatic. This is where careful thought to lighting can make a big difference. Rooms on the cold side of the house often benefit from slightly deeper, warmer shades. Older houses tend to have less light inside so modern colours can look cold and soulless. Often, more complex, or warmer tones will suit better.
Rebecca Long is a Christchurch-based Resene Colour Consultant. Need help with the right colour palette for your home? Visit your local Resene ColorShop or book a Resene Colour Consultation, in store, virtual, or the Resene Colour Expert can come to you – resene.co.nz/colourconsultation. A Resene Colour Expert can help you coordinate your look and give you the confidence to get decorating. Resene also have a large range of
wallpapers and special effects products to add interest.
